It was a very exciting final night, and only after 3 1/2 hours of blitz play the outcome was clear. Between the last two 16 games was necessary before the winner was announced. The last games were played with one minute each!

GM Dmitry Andreikin, Russia

Unfortunately the strong Russian can’t come to ACC as part of the first prize, because it clashes with the Junior World Championships.
It is now being investigated which of the trailing contestants will accept travel and accommodation, as well as 400 Euros. It’ll be clear in the next few days – and it may even be the talented 13-year-old Alexandr Bortnik from Ukraine, who shared 3rd-4th place.

Because we collect countries, we might hope for GM Alexandr Fier (pictured) from Brazil, who now is first or second in line. The rumors have it that the Indian GM Laxman in second place cannot take part either because of participation in another tournament.

Alexandr Bortnik, Alexandr Fier, Dmitry Andreikin, Internet Chess Club, Laxman, qualifier Hide